The Journey of Stillness

Lately, if you've found yourself stuck inside more often than usual, you’re not alone. The snowy chaos outside has kept many of us confined—beautiful, yes, but also a little overwhelming. It can make everything slow down. And while cabin fever is real, it’s also an invitation to stop and reflect.

It’s a gentle reminder to take a breath, to slow down, and to appreciate the stillness. These moments—whether it’s a quiet morning with a cup of tea, curling up with a good book, or just watching the snow fall—can be surprisingly meaningful. In the rush of everyday life it is so easy to forget how important it is to rest and recharge.

Restlessness, boredom, that feeling of being trapped inside… I get it. But try to see this time as an opportunity. An opportunity to find beauty in the simple things. The quiet, cozy moments—believe it or not—are a gift, giving us time to pause and reflect on the things we sometimes take for granted.

Spring is just around the corner, promising longer days, blooming flowers, and fresh beginnings. Until then, cherish the cozy moments, find joy in the small things, and hold onto hope for brighter days ahead.

Like all seasons, winter’s snowy grip will eventually loosen, and the warmth of spring will arrive. Until then, embrace the stillness, cherish the beauty, and look forward to new beginnings.

Things I Wish I Could Take Back: The Epic Saga of a Virus, a Ball, and a Very Unwelcome Window - A Journey You Can't Help but Laugh At

 

**Things I Wish I Could Take Back: The Epic Saga of a Virus, a Ball, and a Very Unwelcome Window**

If I had a dollar for every moment I wish I could erase, I’d be a millionaire. But some moments are so wild, so cringe-worthy, so downright hilarious in hindsight, that they become legendary stories in our family. This is one of those tales—starring a virus, a fancy ROTC ball, and a very dramatic exit that could rival any Hollywood comedy or horror film. 

It all started innocently enough. My daughter and I had battled a nasty virus—a cruel imposter that made us wish we could stay in bed forever. We had a big day planned: a college visit for my daughter, the excitement of new beginnings. But let’s just say the virus had other plans. We had the virus days before the visit so we were on the mend. 

The day of our visit we started our trip off just like any other trip - a biscuit. My husband was munching on his and then I hear "I'm not feeling well" immediately raising an eyebrow. He didn't look too bad at first, but then he didn't finish his biscuit, and that raised another eyebrow. The closer we got to the college the greener he becomes. During the two hour ride he kept repeating one phrase "I'm going down hill" which sent red flags. By the time we arrived at the college,  my poor husband felt like a train ran over him not once, but a couple of times. He was at the beginning of his own personal apocalypse. 

Despite this, what do we do? The trip had already been planned. We did not want to disappoint our daughter. So, we kept going.  He would just sit in the car. 

Fast forward to an ROTC ball—fancy attire, glittering decorations, and the smell of gourmet food in the air. 

While sitting in the car, the rumble of his stomach hits him suddenly—it won’t let up, and he knows he’s got to make his way inside quickly to find a restroom.  I watched him walk away, feeling a mixture of concern and the hope that he’d just come out looking a little pale. Instead, he was gone longer than expected. That’s when I saw him stumbling back, looking like he’d just escaped from a horror movie set.

He was making his way past a group of well-dressed gentlemen, probably headed to a fancy table with sparkling glasses and gleaming silverware, when suddenly, he did an unexpected U-turn.  He veered off toward the restroom—a pristine, marble-floored sanctuary with elegant gold fixtures and a faint scent of lavender air freshener. The restroom doors swung open to reveal a row of shiny sinks, perfectly folded hand towels, and a mirror that reflected the chaos about to unfold. Those poor cadets—they had to witness it not once, not twice, not even three times, but so many times that they started making way as the green haze followed him around.

As he sits in the car waiting with a pale face and a look of sheer embarrassment, he hesitates, but he knows he needs to find a quiet, hidden place where nobody will see him—some secret corner where he can “disappear.” His tummy rumbles again, and he can’t face those poor cadets again. So, he slips out of the car, tiptoes to the side of the beautiful log cabin, and carefully looks around to make sure no one is watching or can see him. He finds a tree nearby and, on all fours, desperately begs God: Please take this poison from my body.

Feeling fairly confident he’s hidden from view, he finally lets out a sigh of relief—and then, in a moment straight out of a comedy, he looks up… and sees a window. Through that window, he spots a group of well-dressed, smiling people enjoying what looks like a fabulous ROTC ball, complete with fancy dresses, tuxedos, and twinkling lights.

In that instant, he realizes he’s just made his grand, humiliating exit right in front of a glass window filled with strangers. With a small, sheepish wave—probably trying to say, “I’m not feeling so great, folks”—he quickly ducks down, struggling to get back to the car, and crawls into the seat. 

Relief washes over us as our daughter finishes up with her visit and we prepare to head home.

That whole night felt like a bizarre comedy special, and that wave? Well, it’s a moment we’ll never forget.

We finally made it back home and crawled into the house, exhausted, embarrassed, and praying that the virus—and the window—would just disappear. We weren’t even thinking about college acceptance anymore. 

If you must know she did get accepted. How? Honestly, I don’t know. Someone had to feel sorry for us. 

Now, when I think about that night, I can’t help but laugh. It was like a scene from a comedy-horror hybrid movie—and I’m pretty sure it could win awards for “Most Embarrassing Family Moment.” 

So, what do I wish I could take back? Honestly, I’d love to erase the window moment for those poor people, not knowing it was there. But I also wouldn’t trade the memory for the world. Because sometimes, life’s messiest moments make the best stories—and the funniest memories.

If Only I Had Known About This Journey

If Only I Had Known

Sometimes, I find myself thinking, *"If only I had known then what I know now."* It’s a common reflection, filled with questions about how things might have been different—whether I would have changed my choices, listened more closely to God's voice, or embraced challenges and opportunities differently.

Would I have accepted the obstacles that tested my faith? Would I have welcomed the opportunities to grow spiritually and personally? These questions linger, but deep down, I realize that my journey—every twist, turn, and challenge—has shaped who I am today.

Something inside of me says - I probably wouldn’t have changed a thing.  I believe I would have still walked the path God set before me, trusting that each step was part of His divine plan. The truth is, where I am today—more grounded in faith, more confident in God's promises, and more dependent on His grace—far outweighs any doubts or uncertainties I have had on this journey.

The lessons I’ve learned, the growth I’ve experienced, and the faith I’ve developed are all part of His greater purpose. Sometimes, not knowing the full picture allows us to step out in faith, trusting that God’s plan is better than anything we could imagine.

So, if I had the chance to redo it all, I might not change a thing. Because every moment, every challenge, and every blessing has led me to where I am today—a place of greater faith, hope, and trust in God's unwavering love. When the world expects me to look down during discouraging times, I will be looking up because I know I am not walking this journey alone.  

Your Journey: Created for a Purpose

 

**Take Me Back to that Hard Wooden Bench**

Take me back to that old, hard wooden bench—sitting quietly in that old country church, when everything felt simple, pure, and full of hope. Life felt less complicated without the constant hurry, the rush, the always-on-the-go attitude, and the noise of what we call cell phones, the endless distraction of notifications, texts and phone calls.  When did we become so busy. Sitting on that bench during a worship service everything seemed to fade away—the worries, the noise, the chaos of the world. It was just me and God. 

It was on that humble bench that I first realized I was created for a purpose—your purpose. In that quiet moment, I saw the truth that my identity is rooted in You, and that my calling was alive and real.  Nothing has changed—your call on my life still remains the same. You, Lord, remain the same. Your purpose remains steady and sure.

Life can become hectic and overwhelming—pressures from work, relationships, doubts, and fears can weigh heavy on us. But in those quiet moments, I will choose to stay rooted in You. I know I’ll mess up—yes, sometimes I’ll feel like I’ve really fallen hard. But with each mistake, I will get back up. Every time I stumble, I will rise again because I trust in Your grace. When people stare, judge, gossip, lie, oppose me, or try to erase me from their lives—I will remember that old wooden bench from years ago. In that stillness, You revealed a purpose in my heart—a purpose I cannot escape. It’s deep, woven into my soul, and You’re the One who placed it there.

God is faithful. I will stand firm—unshaken—because I trust that He has a plan for my life, and for yours as well. Don’t pay attention to the naysayers, the stares, or those who judge, gossip, lie, or accuse. Live with a purpose— the purpose that Jesus has for you. It’s so much greater than any negativity or doubt. It’s the greatest life you can live. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, and don’t look back. Remember who you are in Him. Step forward in His love and embrace the abundant life He’s prepared for you—a life filled with grace, hope, and purpose.

The Journey of Worship: Honoring God for Who He Is, Our Creator

**Worship for Who He Is: Our Creator - Beyond Blessings**

Today, I heard someone say, "We should simply worship God because He is our Creator." That statement made me pause and begin to reflect. Are we truly worshiping Him for who He is, or are we only drawn to worship because of the blessings we receive?

Are we spoiled—so accustomed to His grace that we forget the essence of true worship. What if no more blessings were given? How would our lives change if we had the mindset of - Even if You choose not to bless me, I will still choose to worship Him, for He is our Creator - Maybe it would lead to a more authentic faith - one that stands firm in abundance or hardship, always honoring God for who He is. 

Worship rooted in gratitude for His presence, regardless of circumstances, is the purest form of honoring our Creator. It’s not dependent on what He gives us but on who He is—our loving, faithful, unchanging God.

I choose to worship Him for who He is—our Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer—regardless of what I have or don't have. Because true worship is a response to His nature, not just His blessings. Will you join me?

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**I Love Christmas — But Don’t Forget Why We Celebrate**

I love Christmas. I love the decorations that light up the streets and homes, the beautiful trees decorated with ornaments, the joy of giving and receiving gifts, the colorful wrapping papers, and the sweets and candies that make the season even sweeter. I love the cheerful songs that fill the air, the sparkling Christmas lights that brighten the night, and even the Christmas paper scattered on the floor from wrapping presents. I cherish the family get-togethers, the laughter, the warmth, and everything that makes this season special.

But in the middle of all the beauty and fun, I want to remember one important thing: Christ didn’t come so that we could have all these things. Christmas is about so much more than decorations, gifts, and festivities. It’s about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ—the Savior who came into the world to bring love, hope, and salvation.

It’s a time to reflect on the greatest gift of all—the gift of Jesus. As we enjoy the lights, the songs, and the celebrations, let’s also remember the true meaning of Christmas and hold onto the love and hope He brought into our lives.

Merry Christmas — may the joy of Christ fill your heart today and always.

 

**Christmas Is Almost Here – Time to Enjoy Every Moment!**

Can you believe Christmas is just around the corner? It’s only a few days away, and I’ve been soaking up all the adorable ideas for making this holiday extra special. From cozy Christmas movies to fun candy recipes, the season is full of joy and magic.

Have you thought about your Elf on the Shelf ideas? It’s such a fun tradition that sparks giggles and surprises every morning. And don’t forget about your Christmas Eve traditions—whether it’s reading a special story, baking cookies, or lighting candles, these moments create lasting memories.

Speaking of traditions, those adorable Christmas outfit photos are always a hit! Pajama family pictures, in particular, make for cute keepsakes to look back on for years to come.

While all these ideas are wonderful, the most important thing is to truly enjoy the moment. Take time to notice the smiles, hear the laughter, and feel the warmth of being together. Don’t worry about the trash on the floor—the Christmas paper and bows will get picked up eventually. Let the tree stay up a few extra days longer if you want. It doesn’t have to come down immediately. Just enjoy the time with your family, relive memories, and savor the present.

Talk about what’s to come, share your hopes and dreams, but above all, remember why we celebrate Christmas. It’s a celebration of a beautiful baby boy born in a manger—Jesus Christ—who came into this world to bring us peace, love, and joy. All of this is found in Him.

So this Christmas, slow down a little, soak in every smile, and cherish the true meaning of the season. After all, that’s what makes this time of year so unforgettable.

The Journey of Choosing Boundaries and Moving Forward

 

**Is It Okay for Christians to Set Boundaries?**

Many Christians wonder if it’s right to set boundaries. The answer is without hesitation yes! Boundaries are healthy and biblical.

The Bible teaches us about love, respect, and self-control. Jesus Himself showed us how to care for ourselves by withdrawing to pray and rest. 

Proverbs 4:23: "Guard your heart, because everything you do flows from it." This shows the importance of protecting ourselves from being hurt too much.

**Why are boundaries especially important for church leaders?**  

Many pastors and leaders face intense stress and mistreatment. According to a 2017 survey by the Barna Group, nearly half of pastors have considered quitting ministry because of burnout. About 1,700 pastors in the U.S. leave ministry each month, often due to feelings of exhaustion, loneliness, and being overwhelmed.

Even more heartbreaking are stories of pastors who have faced verbal abuse, criticism, and mistreatment from church members. Some leaders are pushed to the point of depression or despair. Sadly, there have been cases where pastors and church leaders have taken their own lives after years of emotional hurt and feeling unsupported. For example, in 2013, Pastor Andrew Stoecklein of California died by suicide after battling depression caused by the pressures and criticism of ministry. His story shocked many and brought awareness of how severe the toll can be.

**Why does this happen?**  Often, it’s because leaders don’t set healthy boundaries. They give too much of themselves and don’t protect their emotional space. Without limits, the stress and abuse can become overwhelming.

**What is the solution?**  Setting boundaries is a way of loving ourselves and our communities. It helps us stay strong, healthy, and able to serve with joy. Boundaries are not signs of weakness—they’re signs of wisdom, love, and obedience to God’s call to care for ourselves.

In summary, if you’re in leadership or even in the pew, remember that taking care of your emotional and spiritual health is biblical and necessary. Setting boundaries isn’t selfish; it’s an act of love—both for yourself and for those you serve.

**And for those in pastoral ministry feeling overwhelmed, remember this encouragement:**  

*“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”* — Matthew 11:28  

Jesus cares about our well-being and offers us rest. Don’t be afraid to set healthy boundaries—**"A decision I have made intentionally, no second-guesses and no looking back."** 

The Journey of Truth: Unmasking Myths Along the Way

 

So-Called Truths

In a world overflowing with information, it’s easy to accept what we hear as truth. From childhood stories to viral headlines, many “truths” get passed down through generations, shaping our beliefs and behaviors. But here’s a thought: what if some of these so-called truths are actually myths in disguise?

Before you take something at face value, pause for a moment. It just might be a myth that’s been accepted as fact all along.

We’ve all been told cracking knuckles will lead to arthritis. But the truth? The sound you hear is caused by gases escaping from joint fluid. Studies show that cracking your knuckles doesn’t damage your joints or increase arthritis risk. So go ahead—crack away if it helps you feel better!

Carrots contain vitamin A, which is essential for eye health. But eating a lot of carrots won’t give you super-vision or make you see in the dark. They help maintain healthy eyesight—but that’s about it. No superhero powers here!

Think lightning only strikes once and then moves on? Think again. Lightning can and often does strike the same place multiple times—especially tall, isolated objects like skyscrapers or trees. It’s more common than you might imagine.

The Moral of the Story

The next time someone shares a “truth,” don’t just accept it blindly. Take a moment to verify the facts. With a little curiosity and critical thinking, you might discover that many of these so-called truths are actually myths that have been accepted as fact.

Just because someone says something doesn’t make it true. Question, research, and verify—your understanding will become clearer, and you’ll be better equipped to navigate the sea of information around you.

Don’t believe everything you hear—because some “truths” are really myths in disguise. And remember, the messenger delivering the myth may also be disguised as well.

The Unexpected Curveballs in Life: Embracing Your Journey of Growth

**Catching Life’s Curveballs**

Life is full of surprises, and not all of them come in a straight line. Sometimes, just when you think you have everything figured out, a curveball is thrown your way. These unexpected challenges can feel overwhelming, but they also offer valuable lessons.

Curveballs test our resilience, adaptability, and strength. They push us to grow in ways we never anticipated. Instead of seeing them as obstacles, try to view these moments as opportunities for growth.

Remember, it’s not about avoiding the curveballs but learning how to swing at them. With a positive mindset and a bit of flexibility, you can turn life's surprises into stepping stones toward a stronger, wiser you.

**The Final Journey: A Reflection on Love, Regret, and the Passing of Time**

Imagine being told that someone you love deeply will slip into eternity today. The words hit like a thunderclap, and suddenly your mind is flooded with memories—laughter, tears, silent moments of understanding. You spend every second holding on tighter, acting with tenderness and desperation, trying to make the most of what little time remains. You whisper words you hope will be enough, wishing you could turn back time.

And then, just before the moment arrives—before eternity claims them—you realize with a shock that it’s not just someone you love who is fading away. It’s you. You are the one slipping into the unknown. In that instant, all the regrets flood in: you should have taken that day off work, gone to that picnic, set boundaries you never did, told them how much they meant, loved more freely. But time has run out. The moment is gone. There’s no more second chances, no more words to say, no way to turn back the clock.

In those final seconds, the only thing left is the aching truth—love is fleeting, and life is fragile. And as calls beckons, you realize that perhaps the greatest lesson is to cherish every moment—before it’s too late.

Enjoying the Journey When It Seems As If Everything Goes Wrong

 

You know the type—when it feels like everything that can go wrong, does. One moment, you’re reaching for a carton of eggs in the pantry, only to realize eggs go in the fridge. Classic mistake!! 😂 Then there’s the time you’re driving, the sun is killing your eyes and you can’t find your sunglasses. You drive an hour or so -you look in the rearview mirror, and suddenly, there they are—on your head!

And let’s not forget the frantic search for your phone. You’re digging through bags, pockets, everywhere, only to realize you’re already talking on it. Or that moment at the grocery store when you’re trying to pay, and your debit card isn’t working. Only then do you realize—you’re trying to pay with your driver’s license!

Been there? Yeah, me too. Oh boy, when will this day be over? All you can do is laugh at the chaos and enjoy the journey. It’s okay to laugh at yourself—you’re not going crazy. Maybe you have a lot going on right now, and life feels a little overwhelming. That’s completely normal.

When those days happen, remember to laugh at yourself and take a deep breath. If you journal, write it down. When you have a bad day, go back and read those funny stories —they’ll remind you that it’s okay to not have everything perfectly together all the time. Sometimes, a good laugh is just what you need.

The Sisters' Journey - A Walk Down Memory Lane

**Sisters: A Walk Down Memory Lane**  

Growing up with a sisters is like having a built-in best friend for life. From the moment we were little, we shared secrets, laughter, tears, and a few misadventures that still make us smile today.  

Last night, we were texting each other, reminiscing about the silly things we did, and I found myself laughing so hard—one of those laughs where I was crying. We were reminded of the time my baby sister fell asleep in church and accidentally peed—right there on those old hard wooden pews. Everyone had wet butts, and we all thought Granny had an accident.  

Then there was the time my sister and I got into a fight in the garden. It was so hot, we were so aggravated, and just ready to go home. Instead of calming down, we took it out on each other—and she made me eat dirt!  

And let's not forget the day my baby sister got to experience what it felt like to get into trouble for turning the pages in the Bible too loud during church—though to this day, she insists it wasn’t her. Although, I don't know how you can turn pages too loud. 😂 There was also the middle sister, who got a bad grade in school and then thought she could escape punishment by jumping on the bed—like if she jumped high enough, she could get away from Dad. That didn’t work, of course!

I also remembered how Dad would sometimes slip out of church without me noticing, then come back in and sit right behind me. On the way home, he’d ask what the preacher had spoken about. Let’s just say, I quickly learned to stop talking, pay attention and take notes!  I became the best note taker. 

We laughed so hard, and those moments brought back a flood of memories.  

Thinking about all these moments made me miss my dad so much, but it also made me love my parents even more for what they instilled in us growing up. Those lessons, those laughs, those messes—they all shaped us into the women we are today.  

We got into trouble quite a bit, we were kids. But looking back, I realize those moments—those wild, funny, and sometimes messy times—are what made our family special. They remind me that family is a gift, and the love we share is something we carry with us forever.  

So here’s to my sisters—no matter how many years pass or how far apart we may be, those memories will always warm my heart and remind me of the beautiful chaos and unconditional love we shared growing up.  

The Journey To Inner Freedom - Dropping The Mask

Recently I decided to do some self-care and put on a charcoal face mask. You know, the kind that helps clean your face and makes you look a little spooky? I sat in the living room, working on some things, and didn’t think much about it. I was just relaxing and enjoying my little moment of quiet.

I sat there for about 20 minutes, totally unaware that my husband hadn’t noticed a thing. But then, out of nowhere, he looked in my direction and then looked twice!

His eyes got really big, and he looked so surprised—like he’d seen a ghost from another world. All he saw was me sitting there, with a dark face, working away, looking kind of strange. Later it made me think about something deeper.

Sometimes we wear masks—to hide how we really feel inside (Oh, I'm okay- heard that before - when in reality we are really not). We pretend everything is okay when deep down, we’re hurting or concerned. We act strong when we feel scared, or we hide our struggles because we’re afraid others might see our weaknesses. We wear these masks so no one can see what’s really going on.

Take the mask off and come to God with all the flaws, fears, struggles and all.  God sees the real us anyway, why try to hide it - the mask is not doing anything.  He loves all our imperfections and weaknesses. He knows our hearts and loves us anyway.

So,  I remind myself—and you—that it’s okay to stop pretending. We do not have to hide our feelings and act like everything is fine when it’s not. God invites us to come to Him honestly, with all our concerns and imperfections. When we stop wearing masks and come to Him as we are, His love makes us whole and real.

Don’t hide behind those masks. Be brave enough to show your true self to God, because He loves you just as you are. He can change you from the inside out - And in His love, you will find the strength to allow Him to do so. 

The Journey of Learning to Let Go

**What Are You Letting Go Of? Is It Time to Release It?*

Sometimes, life gets really hard. We face problems that we can't fix on our own, and we start to feel overwhelmed. It’s easy to try to control everything or hold on tightly to what we think will help. But there’s a different way—one that can bring peace and hope. It’s called “letting go and letting God.”

Letting go means releasing the things we can't change or control. It’s about trusting that God has a plan for us, even when things don’t make sense. Instead of carrying all the worries and stress ourselves, we choose to give them to God and believe that He will take care of everything. It’s not always easy to do, but it’s a way to find peace in the middle of chaos.

When we let God take over, we open our hearts to His guidance and strength. We stop trying to do everything on our own and trust that He knows what’s best for us. It’s about having faith that no matter how tough things seem, God is with us, guiding us, and working things out for our good.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that it’s okay to let go of what you can’t control.  Sometimes, the best thing we can do is simply step back, breathe, and let God do what only He can do. When we do that, we often find peace, hope, and strength to face whatever comes next.

**The Christmas Journey: Memories of Family, Laughter, and Love**

 

I am sitting here counting days till Christmas and then my mind wanders more towards Christmas memories — the warmth of gathering with family, the sound of laughter filling the air, the smell of good food cooking in the kitchen. I think back to those Christmases at my grandparents’ house, and so many memories come flooding back.

I realize now it wasn't about the presents — it was about being together. We’d all pile into that cozy house, the table full of good food, the living room buzzing with excitement. The gift of being with the people I loved. Sitting around, sharing stories, laughing until our sides hurt. Those moments felt so precious, like time stood still just for us.

We’d open presents, yes, but even that was secondary. It was the joy of seeing everyone’s face light up, the hugs, the “thank-yous,” and the feeling of belonging. It was about connection. About knowing that even if life got busy or hard, at Christmas, we’d come together and remember what really mattered: family.

Some of those people are no longer around. The grandparents who used to spoil us, moms, dads, aunts, uncles and the cousins who made every Christmas special — they’re missed so much. Their absence leaves a quiet ache, but also a warm feeling knowing that their love and laughter live on in our memories. We hold onto those moments, cherishing the love they shared, and grateful for the time we had.

Now, those Christmases are memories I carry with me. They remind me gifts aren't what you unwrap, but people you share your life with. The laughter, the hugs, the stories — that’s what makes life truly special. And even though some of those loved ones are gone, their spirit is still present in memories, in the traditions we keep, and in the love that still binds us.

So this Christmas, I’ll hold those memories close — the gathering at my grandparents’ house, the laughter ringing through the rooms. And I’ll be grateful for every moment,  the past memories and the memories to be made. 

Because no matter how many years go by, those Christmases past will always be part of who I am — a reminder of what’s truly important, and of the love that lasts forever.

**A Journey of Courage: From The Car Door to The Classroom**

Ah, first grade—those innocent days when the biggest worry was whether we would have enough crayons or find a friend to play with at recess. But for me, it was a whole different story.  I was a little bundle of anxiety back then, and being separated from my mom felt like the end of the world.

Back in those days, there was no pre-K or kindergarten to ease little kids into school. Nope, I went straight from home to what seemed like the impressive and gigantic hallwalls of first grade. My mom, who was a stay-at-home superwoman, stayed home and kept us busy (probably trying to keep her hair from turning grey). But every morning, as the school bus pulled up, I would just have a meltdown. On those days I would miss the bus.  Mom, bless her heart, would have to drive me to school.  I would be crying, clinging, and probably making it impossible to get out of the car. And then, in a scene straight out of a comedy, she’d have to give me a gentle but firm *push* to get me out of the car and into the school building. I can only picture what the teachers must have thought—seeing my mom walk into the classroom still holding her child, just moments after she was desperately trying to pull me out of the car door.

But amidst all this chaos, there was a shining star—Mrs. Taylor, my first-grade teacher. If it wasn't for her, I might still be hiding behind her desk, refusing to step into the big, scary classroom. Mrs. Taylor was the kind of teacher who could probably teach a class of wild monkeys and still make them sit quietly. She had a smile that could melt the coldest of hearts and had a way of making me feel safe even when I was trembling in my little school shoes.

Thanks to her I somehow managed to survive that first year. Without her, I might have been a permanent fixture in her classroom, the kid who refused to leave her side. But instead, I made it to second grade—probably still a little anxious, but a little braver too.

Looking back, I can’t help but laugh at those early school days. Who knew that my survival story would start with me being dragged out of the car and ending with a teacher who believed in me? 

**And to all the parents out there: Hang in there. Your little ones are just figuring things out—and sometimes, all they need is a teacher like Mrs. Taylor to get them through the door!**

**"The Journey to Inner Peace: Knowing Your True Worth in God's Eyes"**

 **The Power of Inner Peace: Why a Healed Person Doesn’t Take Everything to Heart**

In life, it’s easy to get upset when others say or do things that hurt us. But as we heal emotionally, we learn that what others say or do is often more about them than about us. A healed person understands that their words come from their own struggles.

Healing takes time and effort. It helps us build confidence and realize we don’t need to take everything personally. When we understand that others’ reactions reflect their own pain, we can stay calm and centered. This gives us peace, making us less affected by negativity and more focused on our own growth.

True peace comes from within. It’s about accepting ourselves and recognizing that we control how much others’ words impact us. When we stop taking everything to heart, we find a deep sense of calm and strength that stays with us through life’s ups and downs.

 **"Words can be empty and misleading, depending on the heart of the one who speaks them."**  The most important truth is knowing your value in God's eyes. His love and acceptance are what give us real worth, far beyond what anyone else might say or think.

Counting my Blessings Throughout The Journey

One song that I really love is *"Counting My Blessings"* by Matt Maher and Seph Schlueter. The lyrics  always remind me to be thankful for everything God has done in my life. Have your heard it before?  Here are a few of the lyrics: *"God, I'm still counting my blessings - For all that You've done in my life. The more that I look in the details - The more of Your goodness I find."* 

There are so many good things God gives us every day, even the small ones we sometimes overlook. No matter how busy or stressed I get, taking a moment to think at my blessings fills my heart with gratitude. It’s a reminder that God's love and kindness - IT IS EVERYWHERE, if we just pay attention. 

The song also talks about how our time here on earth is limited, but God's goodness is endless. It encourages me to keep counting those blessings, knowing I can never truly count them all because God's blessings are bigger than we can imagine. 

So, If you see me riding down the highway windows down, sunroof open, shades on, and music blaring—I just might be me praising God along with Matt and Seph, thanking Him for all His blessings. 😊  

God's goodness is always present. No matter what life throws our way, there’s always something to be thankful for. Let's COUNT OUR BLESSINGS and GIVE THANKS FOR GOD'S ENDLESS LOVE.  

The Journey to Embracing Your Light in A Dark World

 

**God Did Not Call Us to Be Liked — He Called Us to Be Light**

God doesn’t want us just to be popular or liked by everyone. He wants us to **shine** for Him — to be **light** in a dark world. When we choose to do what’s right, speak the truth, and love others, we make darkness very uncomfortable.

The truth is, when you shine your light, it shows what’s hiding in the dark — like sin or wrong choices. Some people don’t want that. They want to stay hidden. So, they try to blow out the light or hide it so their sin won’t be exposed. They don’t want the truth to come out because it makes them feel guilty or uncomfortable.

But God’s calling us to be brave and to shine, even if it makes others uncomfortable. Remember, Jesus Himself was rejected many times because His truth made some people uncomfortable. But His light helped set others free.

So, don’t worry about everyone liking you. Your job is to shine and tell the truth with love. When you do, you help others see what’s real — and that can lead them to change. Shine bright, because that’s what God called you to do!